Entry for Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez and Ciara O’Neal’s 2025 Spring Fling Writing Contest.
Contest Rules: Choose a spring-themed .gif to inspire a 150 word (or less) story/poem for kids ages 12 or under. For more information, check out this FAQ page.
Source: https://tenor.com/view/dragonite-pokemon-gif-18130239
Fresh Fact!
While Snap’s “no-sneeze” flower is made of paper, real snapdragons are allergy-friendly too, thanks to their tightly closed petals that trap pollen inside.
“SNAP THE DRAGON”
By Daniella Kaufman
WC: 149
Snap the dragon, gruff and bold,
despises springtime!! (so I’m told)
He’ll scorn a sprout,
with wrinkled snout.
Harumph and sneer
at blossoms near.
Weeds that grow within his yard,
incinerated!! Roasted! Charred!
But as I pass his home one spring,
I see him do the strangest thing.
He lifts a sprout
beneath his snout,
inhales a whiff
SNIFFLE . . . SNIFF . . .
His lips recoil. Talons thrash.
AH—CHOOOO! The plant is burned to ash.
Snap likes spring! His nose does not.
I wave, while dodging blazing snot.
“Snap!” I yelp
“I’d like to help.”
He huffs a sigh.
“You can try.”
I ask for paper, bright and bold,
to crease and crinkle, tuck and fold.
Finally, I shape a bloom,
enhanced with dabs of sweet perfume.
He takes a whiff
SNIFFLE . . . SNIFF . . .
AH—HA!! HEHE!
He roars with glee.
“What is this plant with no-sneeze power?”
“Call it ‘Snap, the dragon’s flower’.”
Want to join the fun next year?
• Visit Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez and Ciara O’Neal’s blogs for the #SpringFlingKidlit contest information (and more!)
• While you’re there, be sure to check out the amazing list of 2025 Prize Donors!
Daniella Kaufman 